FIVE men have been rescued at sea near Malaita Province last week after encountering rough weather during a boat trip from Guadalcanal to Isabel Province.
According to Malaita Provincial Police Operations Manager, Inspector Michael Ramosaea, the group departed Mamara in Guadalcanal bound for Tatamba in Isabel when strong winds forced their boat off course.
“The men were trying to cross from Mamara to Tatamba when they encountered difficulties due to bad weather conditions,” Inspector Ramosaea said.
They eventually drifted toward the waters of North Malaita, where local fishermen spotted and rescued them.
“Thankfully, all five were found safe, and no one was reported missing,” he added.
The incident was reported to police, who coordinated further assistance for the group upon their arrival in Malaita.
Inspector Ramosaea used the opportunity to urge the public to take weather warnings seriously and to avoid sea travel during periods of rough weather.
“We continue to remind the public to listen to weather updates from the responsible authorities to ensure safety at sea,” he said.
The weather office has been issuing weather advice to the public to avoid traveling during this current weather pattern which had seen strong wind, rain and rough seas.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki